Savannah council approves $7.05 million sale of 2–10 East Bay Street to Gamble Partners

The Savannah City Council voted Nov. 7 to sell surplus property at 2–10 East Bay Street to Gamble Partners, LLC for $7,050,000, approving the transaction after public discussion of the proposal process and negotiating safeguards.

Alderman Julian Miller moved to approve Item #38 and Alderman Brian Foster seconded; the motion carried 5‑3‑1. The minutes record that Aldermen Van R. Johnson II, Tony Thomas and Alderwoman Dr. Estella E. Shabazz voted no; Alderman John Hall did not vote because he had left the meeting.

City staff described the RFP evaluation process, noting this was a proposal selection rather than a lowest‑bid procurement. David Keating, Director of Real Estate, and David Maxwell, Director of Finance, provided background on the department’s procedures and the evaluation committee that reviewed the three proposals.

Garrett Thompson of Gamble Partners outlined the proposed development timeline and financing sources for the project. Richard Mopper, president of NAI, criticized the city’s process: "I think the City's RFP process is antiquated and should be changed," he said, adding that he was disappointed with notification timing and the scoring assigned to proposers.

Alderman Tony Thomas asked about due diligence periods and protections to ensure that—once sold—the property is developed as proposed; staff said contract safeguards and due diligence remain part of the negotiated agreement. Alderwoman Dr. Estella E. Shabazz asked staff to reconsider scoring priorities and urged some local priority for area businesses.

Council approved the sale; staff were asked to review notification procedures to proposers and to provide additional procurement process details to the council for future improvements.

The minutes do not list a detailed timetable for construction following closing; the council discussion requested safeguards and additional documentation on project milestones and due diligence timing.